The St George Illawarra Dragons will celebrate one of the Illawarra region's most important community events on the calendar, when the i98FM Illawarra Convoy rolls into town this Sunday, November 17, marking 20 years since its inception.
The largest gathering of trucks and bikes in the Southern Hemisphere, the i98FM Illawarra Convoy is one of the most extensive regional fundraisers in the country. Money raised from the event provides support to individuals and families affected by life-threatening medical conditions, local hospitals and contributions to charities who service patients impacted by severe illness.
The Dragons, together with the club's sponsors and partners, have supported the Convoy for a number of years, raising over $200,000 in funding and gifting individuals and families memorable game day experiences.
Each year the Dragons host a Convoy-themed round during the NRL Premiership Season, with the Dragons, Squadron Energy, TripADeal, Venues NSW, the NRL and St George Bank donating $1 each for every person in attendance to the i98FM Illawarra Convoy fundraising efforts. Together with 50/50 Charity Raffle, a combined total of $50,400 was donated to Convoy for the Illawarra Community Foundation for 2024.
Dragons CEO Ryan Webb understands the role St George Illawarra plays within the community.
“We always take pride in being a role model for our community,” Webb said.
“Our club has held Convoy Round for the past six years, designating a home NRL Premiership fixture to raise funds and support the cause."
Webb is proud of the club’s commitment to i98FM's Illawarra Convoy, praising the event's tenure heading into its 20th year.
“We're pleased to be in support this Sunday at Shellharbour Airport, as we all celebrate the hard work and contributions that have been made over the last 20 years in the Illawarra region. We look forward to continuing our support for the Convoy ahead of the 2025 NRL Premiership season,” he added.
The convoy has raised over $25 million since it began in 2005 with thousands of locals having benefitted from the funds raised. St George Illawarra Dragons prides itself on providing a positive impact on the local community raising the below totals from previous NRL Convoy Rounds.
Previous totals raised by Convoy Dragons Match Day Games:
- 2019 Dragons, NRL, Venues NSW $30,000
- 2020 Dragons, NRL, Venues NSW $29,787
- 2021 Dragons, NRL, Venues NSW $30,000
- 2022 Dragons, NRL, Venues NSW $ 37,044
- 2023 Dragons, NRL, Venues NSW, St George Bank, Trip a deal $100,000
- 2024 Dragons, NRL, Venues NSW, St George Bank, Trip a deal, Squadron Energy $50,400
The 2024 Convoy Free Family Fun Day will take place at Shellharbour Airport this Sunday November 19, between 8:30AM – 3:00PM. The main stage will be hosted by i98's Marty, Christian and Bella, featuring artists Diesel and Andrew Swift to entertain attendees. The event will also include Food Stalls, Helicopter Joy Flights, Motorcross Demonstrations and other activities to entertain the family.
The St George Illawarra Dragons will run a Pass-the-Ball Activation and a Dragons Prize Wheel, whilst players will be onsite from 10:00AM – 2:00PM for photos and signings.
For more event information, please visit the i98FM Illawarra Convoy page here.